Transvenous embolization of bilateral indirect carotid-cavernous fistulas via a unilateral transorbital approach

Orbit. 2021 Aug;40(4):320-325. doi: 10.1080/01676830.2020.1779753. Epub 2020 Jun 19.

Abstract

A 73-year-old man with a complex ophthalmologic history presented with several weeks of worsening diplopia, visual acuity, and proptosis bilaterally. Cerebral angiography demonstrated bilateral indirect Barrow type B carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs). Transarterial embolization was not attempted due to small arterial diameter and risk of stroke. Multiple attempts were made to access the fistula via a transfemoral venous approach and were unsuccessful. A transorbital puncture was performed, which allowed access to both cavernous sinuses via a unilateral approach. After embolization with Onyx, there was no residual fistula. The patient had a left-sided retrobulbar hematoma from the access. Right eye vision improved postoperatively.

Keywords: Carotid-cavernous fistula; transorbital puncture; transvenous embolization.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carotid-Cavernous Sinus Fistula* / diagnostic imaging
  • Carotid-Cavernous Sinus Fistula* / therapy
  • Cavernous Sinus* / diagnostic imaging
  • Cerebral Angiography
  • Embolization, Therapeutic*
  • Fistula*
  • Humans
  • Male